Iris and Roy Johansen’s Flash Back distinguishes itself as one of the most unique crime thrillers due to the versatile lives of the characters, particularly the protagonist. Kendra Micheals is a successful music therapist who uses her research to help those with neurological disabilities. When she is not engaged in her doctoral research or working with clients, she is occasionally assisting homicide detectives with unsolvable cases.
Kendra lived the majority of her life as a sightless person. After undergoing a surgical procedure, she was able to regain her sight while still benefiting from the advanced faculties of her other senses. With these heightened senses that she once solely depended on in tandem with newborn eyes, Kendra is able to bring an insight and resourcefulness that no law enforcement officer can compete with. Unfortunately, her superpowers often come at a cost, especially to her safety and the safety of those around her.
Highly sought after, Kendra ends up being approached by Paula Chase. Paula is a retired detective who has been left confounded by two recent missing persons cases, which are connected to an older homicide case. Two sisters, Sloane and Chloe Morgan, were orphaned after the murder of their mother (a disabled woman who became the third victim of a serial killer). The Morgan sisters, who have been independently investigating the neglected case of their mother’s murder, have gone missing without a trace. In every sense of the term, no trace has been left behind to point to what happened to them or where they’ve gone. Both of their homes, cars, cellphones, and wallets have been left completely intact with no sign of either of them being abducted or planning to leave.
As the first responder to the original case and guardian-like friend of the Morgan sisters, Paula feels obligated to expend any time and effort she can into finding these two women. Hours after she meets Kendra and hands over files of research completed by the Morgan sisters, Paula is murdered within her own home. With the added danger and severity of the situation, Kendra surprisingly becomes more adamant about solving the missing persons’ cases and possibly finding the serial perpetrator.
This story is great for someone who enjoys a balance of personal drama, detailed investigations, and a strange but compelling storyline. The characters involved in the investigation are highly realistic, with very guarded demeaners and short, sarcastic speech. If you’re able to identify with, or understand, individuals with this personality type, you will enjoy the dry humor and banter between the characters, as well as appreciating the story itself. Personally, I rate it 5 stars. Download the sample of this book on your phone, order it online, or go pick it up at your local bookstore.